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Coastal walks in Northern Ireland

The basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway and distant cliffs at sunset — The famous Giant's Causeway | © National Trust Images/Joe Cornish

From leisurely strolls to rugged hikes, this selection of the best coastal walks in Northern Ireland offer clifftop paths with spectacular sea views, sandy boardwalks through nature reserves and unexpected architecture on headland trails.

Giant's Causeway Red Trail, County Antrim: With many unique viewing points, this bracing clifftop trail has spectacular vistas of the world-famous Causeway Coast that are off the beaten track.See the Giant's Causeway from above
Kearney Coastal walk, County Down: This short coastal route takes in the rugged shoreline of the lower Ards Peninsula and the whitewashed cottages of the traditional fishing village of Kearney.Visit Kearney village
Murlough Nature Reserve North Point trail, County Down: Discover the beauty of Murlough with a walk through the dune heath National Nature Reserve, with the majestic Mourne Mountains as a backdrop.Walk the North Point trail
Castle Ward boundary trail, County Down: This varied route around the country estate includes a section that takes you along the shores of Strangford Lough.Walk the estate and loughside
Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne: Mussenden Temple is an iconic landmark, perched right on the cliff edge at Downhill Demesne. Take a walk along this rugged headland and discover one of the most photographed places in Ireland.Find out more

Family walking their dog on the beach near Saltram, Devon

Coast and beaches

From wild cliffs and open seas to tranquil beaches and hidden coves, there are endless beautiful places along the coastline we look after to explore.

Find your next seaside adventure

We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.

Close up of a walker's boots with a group of walkers in the background as they climb up Pen yr Ole Wen, Carneddau and Glyderau, Gwynedd, Wales

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Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner

Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.

The basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway and distant cliffs at sunset

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Coast and countryside car parks in Northern Ireland

List of some of the Trust’s smaller and more secluded car parks in Northern Ireland.

Two walkers and one person using an all-terrain mobility vehicle look out from a grassy hill, across the sea and to a coastal town

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Top tips for coastal walks

Get safety tips for walking by the coast, including the essential clothing and equipment to take with you and what to do before you set out.

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Large cottages and group getaways in Northern Ireland

Walkers ascending a path towards Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains, County Down

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Explore the Mournes mountain range

Explore the highest, most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland. Head out for a walk, enjoy views of the valleys, lakes & rivers & spot seasonal wildlife.

Visitor walks along a dirt path at Godolphin Hill on a summer's day

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Hill and mountain walks

Discover a range of memorable and historic trails from around the UK, suitable for families, nature lovers, seasoned adventurers or relaxed ramblers.

Ancient trees on the walk up to Croft Ambre Croft Castle, Herefordshire.

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Places to walk inspired by myths and legends

Discover tales of treasure guarded by dragons and mischievous imps that lead travellers astray at these places you can go for a walk selected for their links to local myths and legends.

Walkers passing by a stream on Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains, County Down

Walking in Northern Ireland

Explore the dramatic landscape of places like the UNESCO World Heritage Site at the Giant's Causeway or the sandy shores of Portstewart Strand on these walks in Northern Ireland.